He met Charlotte Struble during their undergraduate years. They went on to marry on September 4, 1965.
Dean spent his early career teaching science in Adams and Edmore, ND. He was then hired by the USDA Soil Conservation Service, based in their Grafton, ND office. He spent this time working with North Dakota farmers in efforts to mitigate environmental disturbances. He moved throughout North Dakota within the SCS until his retirement.
An avid hunter, fisherman, and gardener, he loved spending his days outside. He was also a skilled woodworker, wood carver, and had a flare for quilting.
He was a member of the Elks, the Lions Club (where he served as Past-President), and St. Olaf Lutheran Church.
Dean is survived by his wife, Charlotte; daughters Maren (Wayne) Ehley and Jennifer (Joseph) Rogus; grandchildren Bohdey Stenseth, Aspen Ehley, and Skylar Ehley; great grandchildren Bentley and Brooklyn; brothers-in-law Keith (Lynn) Struble, Charles (Darlene) Struble and sister-in-law Mary (Bob) Amundson; estended family Ritsuko and Asuka Yoshihara; along with many nieces and nephews.
Dean is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Alice, brother Jon, in-laws Howard and Louise (Sieh) Struble, and niece Tiffiney Dick.
A graveside service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital. Https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/giving or mail to:
Shriners Children’s
Corporate Headquarters
2900 N Rocky Point Dr
Tampa FL 33607